Charges Filed in WWII Monument Vandalism Case

The office of U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro has announced charges against a woman accused of vandalizing a World War II monument in Washington, D.C.

On Friday, Pirro confirmed that the individual, identified as Melissa L. Farris, was indicted and previously arrested, as reported by ABC News.

“Attacking our World War II monuments is an outrageous act against sacred memorials that pay tribute to Americans who sacrificed their lives for our freedoms, including my father and grandfather,” Pirro stated in a social media post.

“We are bringing two felony charges against Melissa L. Farris in U.S. District Court: looting federal property and vandalizing a veterans monument. These charges could lead to up to ten years in prison. She is currently in custody,” she added.

According to authorities, Farris allegedly filmed herself spray-painting the monument she admitted to damaging. The U.S. Park Police began an investigation after red paint was found in the Atlantic Pavilion, alongside a bubbling substance that had been poured into the fountain.

A freelance photographer from D.C., Andrew Leyden, captured an image showing the spray-painted message “Clean Hands Dirty $” along with the bubbles in the fountain.

Police also stated that Farris had been arrested earlier on Monday for allegedly illegally camping on nearby federal land.

Former President Donald Trump commented on the incident, expressing outrage over the vandalism. He stated, “Our beautiful World War II memorial was just attacked by spray-painting vandals. There is no greater insult to the American heroes who died in World War II. First it was the reflecting pool, and now this. We are following in their footsteps! Where did these animals come from??? President DJT.”

In a follow-up statement, Pirro remarked, “Desecrating the World War II Memorial is an abhorrent act and an insult to the Americans who died fighting for our country. This monument honors the 16 million veterans who served, the countless who aided the war effort, and over 400,000 heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice.”

She further stated, “The destruction of monuments to their sacrifice is a disgraceful attack on our nation’s heritage. We will not tolerate this type of criminal behavior and will ensure that those who desecrate our veterans’ monuments face full accountability.”

The announcement of Farris’ indictment arrives amid efforts by the Trump administration to preserve and update monuments in the nation’s capital, despite facing backlash and acts of vandalism.